What must an officer demonstrate to be eligible for memorial inclusion?

To be eligible for memorial inclusion, an officer must demonstrate that their death was a direct result of a duty incident. This criterion is critical because memorials specifically honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while performing their law enforcement duties. The emphasis is on duty-related incidents because they reflect the inherent risks associated with policing and signify the bravery and commitment of the officer to their role in serving and protecting the community.

Other factors, such as special training, years of service, or public feedback, while relevant in broader discussions of officer performance and recognition, do not specifically pertain to the eligibility requirements for memorial inclusion. The focus is solely on the circumstances surrounding the officer's line of duty death, underscoring the importance of duty and sacrifice in these somber acknowledgments.